Hex HVAC System Guide: Part 1 - Fundamentals
Start here to understand the basics of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. Click on
highlighted terms
for definitions!What is HVAC?
Welcome to the Hex
HVAC
System Guide! This first section covers the fundamentals. HVAC
stands for Heating
, Ventilation
, and Air
Conditioning
. It's the system that keeps your home comfortable year-round, controlling temperature, humidity, and air purity. Think of it as the lungs and temperature control system for your home. Click the icon to listen.
How the Components Work Together (Simplified)
Outdoor Unit
(AC/Heat Pump Condenser)
Refrigerant Flow
Indoor Unit
(Furnace/Air Handler + Coil)
Most common systems are
Split Systems
. They have an outdoor unit (like an Air Conditioner
or Heat Pump
Condenser
) and an indoor unit (a Furnace
or Air Handler
). These units work with a Thermostat
to control temperature and Ductwork
to deliver the conditioned air. Some systems are Packaged Units
where everything is outside.Key Terms to Know (Click Each!)
BTU
SEER
AFUE
HSPF
Split System
Packaged Unit
Ductwork
Thermostat
Air Handler
Condenser
Understanding these helps compare systems. Efficiency ratings (SEER/AFUE) are covered next!